Working with local horse riders to improve rural road safety

Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin, has met with local horse riders at The Holt Farm to hear first‑hand their concerns about dangerous driving, speeding and a lack of appropriate safety measures on rural roads across the area.  

Several riders shared their experiences of near‑misses and collisions involving fast‑moving vehicles, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness and respect for the Highway Code. 

During the meeting, riders described a range of hazards they face daily, including low‑hanging branches, overgrown verges that obscure sightlines, and bridleways that have become flattened or poorly maintained. Some reported logging issues with the council but received no response, while others raised concerns about missing or inadequate signage, including the absence of horse‑warning triangles at either end of Holt Road or in nearby Whitwell. 

Riders also spoke about the challenges of navigating roads where the national speed limit applies, despite narrow lanes, blind bends, and regular equestrian use. Several noted that although many drivers slow down and pass safely, others behave aggressively or without understanding the vulnerability of horses and riders. Hat‑cam footage is increasingly being used to report dangerous driving, with riders praising the work of North Hertfordshire Police.  

The group shared examples of positive engagement too, including constructive interactions with bin lorry drivers and some bus companies, while noting that experiences with other operators can be inconsistent. 

Alistair Strathern MP commented, 

“I am concerned about the lack of signage and visibility on key routes, including Holt Road, Kimpton Bottom and approaches near the Pool House and overgrown trees and hedges reducing visibility for all road users.  

“There is a need for clearer communication between riders, the council, and the police. It’s of vital importance to raise public awareness of the Highway Code changes, which require drivers to pass horses at no more than 10mph and with at least two metres of space”. 

Riders also highlighted the work of the “Pass Wide and Slow” campaign, which collects national data on police reporting and action, and noted that while Hertfordshire performs better than some areas, there is still room for improvement. 

Speaking after the meeting, Alistair said that riders’ experiences underline the need for all road users to understand their responsibilities under the Highway Code. He emphasised that drivers must take extra care on rural roads where visibility is limited. He also noted that failure to follow the rules can lead to police action where evidence is provided and for drivers to consider the emotional and financial impact on riders, including vet bills and long‑term recovery for injured horses.